As Israel prepares to expand military operations into the city of Rafah, Christian Aid renews its calls for Rishi Sunak to ‘demonstrate unambiguous opposition’.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reported to be drafting evacuation plans ahead of ordering troops to 'prepare to operate' in Rafah, amid claims 'total victory' by Israel over Hamas is ‘just months away’.
But, with some 1.5 million Palestinians sheltering in the city, on the border with Egypt, human rights groups - and the US - have warned an invasion of the overcrowded city would be devastating.
Christian Aid’s Head of Middle East Policy and Advocacy, William Bell, said: “With this order Netanyahu appears to be confirming Palestinians’ worst nightmare that Israel wants to clear Gaza of Palestinians.
“The UK Government must demonstrate unambiguous opposition to this and call out attempts to forcibly transfer people, in order to prevent ethnic cleansing and further civilian suffering.
“Palestinians have endured months of relentless bombardment, disease, displacement, starvation, with almost 30,000 killed, including more than 11,000 children - and now this.
“Does anyone believe Palestinians and Israelis are being treated as equals by states which refuse to demand an immediate ceasefire?”
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